Imperial Bull
Active Member
- Joined
- Jul 17, 2011
- Messages
- 29
Hello,
First post so I'll give you a little background before I get into the build. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. Hunting, fishing, shooting pretty much takes up every free moment I have. Can be a little obsessive and unhealthy at times but I'm sure a few of you can relate. I primarily archery hunt but spend a great amount of time messing with rifles and muzzleloaders as well, along with being involved in several hunts each year with all weapon types. Most of my hunting is done in Oregon, but I try to hunt out of state at least once a year. I have numerous rifles but no full customs or 338s. I have a pretty good idea of what I want but I am a novice compared to many.
I want the rifle to be for long range hunting/target shooting. Would like to keep budget below $3000 but I want quality so if it needs to go over then so be it. Some other guidelines are 8-8.5lb rifle only weight and 26-27 inch finished barrel length not including muzzle break. Would also like to see it shoot 0.5 moa or better because if not, whats the point. I have ideas on many of the components but let me know your thoughts, as many of you are way more knowledgeable than me.
1) Caliber: I am thinking 338 rum or 338 edge, but leaning towards 338 rum because I'm not sure with the 26-27 inch barrel I would gain much in the edge. I understand getting brass for either right now is a challenge.
2) Stock: Manners EH1. Like the look and the weight. Also read many good reviews.
3) Action: Borden Timberline Magnum or Stiller Predator.
4) Trigger: Jewell. Have one, love it.
5) Barrel: This is really where I can't decide. I know there are many good makers out there that would work fine as it is more the smith that puts it together, but I just get a little overwhelmed. The only custom barrels I have are Pac-nor. Like them but this is a little higher end build so I want to get it right by doing more research. I would like the capability to shoot 300 grainers and I need to take the rifle weight into consideration. Thinking 1 in 10 twist (not sure on type conventional, 5C, etc.), around 0.750 at the muzzle (like Lilja #6 or Broughton 5.5 Med Var. Sporter), 26-27 inch finished weight (not sure that extra inch going to 27 will really get me much).
6) Muzzle Break: DE 4 port but no experience. Will be shooting prone so that may need to be taken into consideration.
7) Bottom Metal: Like 700 style hinged floor plate but brand is the question?
8) Smith: Last but not least. Anyone recommend a good smith in Oregon or even Washington? Had work done by a few different guys but not set on anyone. I can do some of the small stuff but chambering, fitting barrel to action is out of my league I believe.
I'm sure I forgot something but figure this is a good start. I appreciate everyone's time and help. I value all opinions, even if they are not what I had in mind. If I am being unrealistic in any part of this build lets hear it.
Thanks you and good shooting,
Jeff
First post so I'll give you a little background before I get into the build. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. Hunting, fishing, shooting pretty much takes up every free moment I have. Can be a little obsessive and unhealthy at times but I'm sure a few of you can relate. I primarily archery hunt but spend a great amount of time messing with rifles and muzzleloaders as well, along with being involved in several hunts each year with all weapon types. Most of my hunting is done in Oregon, but I try to hunt out of state at least once a year. I have numerous rifles but no full customs or 338s. I have a pretty good idea of what I want but I am a novice compared to many.
I want the rifle to be for long range hunting/target shooting. Would like to keep budget below $3000 but I want quality so if it needs to go over then so be it. Some other guidelines are 8-8.5lb rifle only weight and 26-27 inch finished barrel length not including muzzle break. Would also like to see it shoot 0.5 moa or better because if not, whats the point. I have ideas on many of the components but let me know your thoughts, as many of you are way more knowledgeable than me.
1) Caliber: I am thinking 338 rum or 338 edge, but leaning towards 338 rum because I'm not sure with the 26-27 inch barrel I would gain much in the edge. I understand getting brass for either right now is a challenge.
2) Stock: Manners EH1. Like the look and the weight. Also read many good reviews.
3) Action: Borden Timberline Magnum or Stiller Predator.
4) Trigger: Jewell. Have one, love it.
5) Barrel: This is really where I can't decide. I know there are many good makers out there that would work fine as it is more the smith that puts it together, but I just get a little overwhelmed. The only custom barrels I have are Pac-nor. Like them but this is a little higher end build so I want to get it right by doing more research. I would like the capability to shoot 300 grainers and I need to take the rifle weight into consideration. Thinking 1 in 10 twist (not sure on type conventional, 5C, etc.), around 0.750 at the muzzle (like Lilja #6 or Broughton 5.5 Med Var. Sporter), 26-27 inch finished weight (not sure that extra inch going to 27 will really get me much).
6) Muzzle Break: DE 4 port but no experience. Will be shooting prone so that may need to be taken into consideration.
7) Bottom Metal: Like 700 style hinged floor plate but brand is the question?
8) Smith: Last but not least. Anyone recommend a good smith in Oregon or even Washington? Had work done by a few different guys but not set on anyone. I can do some of the small stuff but chambering, fitting barrel to action is out of my league I believe.
I'm sure I forgot something but figure this is a good start. I appreciate everyone's time and help. I value all opinions, even if they are not what I had in mind. If I am being unrealistic in any part of this build lets hear it.
Thanks you and good shooting,
Jeff
